Mallala District Who's Who
Distinguished and Famous people from Mallala District
1. Sir Sidney Kidman
Sir Sidney Kidman (1857-1935) was an Australian pastoralist and businessman. He was born in Kapunda, South Australia, which is part of the Mallala District. Kidman became one of Australia's wealthiest and most influential figures in the cattle industry. He played a significant role in the expansion of Australia's pastoral frontier and established a vast network of cattle stations across the country.
2. Frederick George Waterman
Frederick George Waterman (1888-1916) was a World War I Victoria Cross recipient. He was born in the Mallala District and served as a Private in the Australian Army during the war. Waterman was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration for valor in the British Empire, for his gallant actions in the Battle of Pozières, France, in 1916.
3. Don Dunstan
Donald Allan Dunstan (1926-1999), commonly known as Don Dunstan, was a prominent Australian politician. He was born in Suva, Fiji, but spent much of his life in South Australia, including the Mallala District. Dunstan served as the Premier of South Australia from 1967 to 1968 and again from 1970 to 1979. He played a significant role in implementing progressive reforms in South Australia, including decriminalizing homosexuality, introducing anti-discrimination laws, and promoting multiculturalism.
4. Unaipon David
Unaipon David (1872-1967) was an Aboriginal Australian inventor, writer, and preacher. He was born at the Point McLeay Mission, which is within the Mallala District. Unaipon was a talented scholar who made significant contributions to various fields, including mechanical and electrical engineering. He is widely recognized as one of the first Aboriginal intellectuals and is featured on the Australian $50 note.
5. William Christie Gosse
William Christie Gosse (1842-1881) was an Australian explorer and surveyor. He was born in the Mallala District and is best known for his exploration of Central Australia. Gosse led an expedition in 1873 that resulted in the discovery of Ayers Rock (now known as Uluru). He named the rock formation after Sir Henry Ayers, the Chief Secretary of South Australia at the time.
6. Annie Dorrington
Annie Dorrington (c. 1845-1930) was an Australian author and feminist activist. She was born in the Mallala District and became an influential figure in Australian feminist movements during the late 19th century. Dorrington was actively involved in campaigning for women's suffrage and equality, advocating for women's rights and social reform through her writings and public speeches.
